D.J. Tialavea

Grade

Draft Analysis:

6'3" Height

33 5/8" Arm Length

267LBS. Weight

9 1/4" Hands

Overview

Two-way lineman and tight end who earned three letters in both basketball and baseball as a Utah prep. Was recruited as a defensive lineman; redshirted in 2009 and saw very limited action in 2010 (nine games). Switched to tight end in 2011 and started 6 of 13 games, catching seven balls for 74 yards (10.6-yard average) and a touchdown. Started 7 of 12 games played in 2012 and had 6 catches for 31 yards and a TD. Did not play in the season opener against Southern Utah. In 2013, started 4 of 6 games played and managed 17 catches for 93 yards (5.5) and three TDs before having season-ending surgery to repair a broken right foot. His father, Don, died in November 2013. Did not perform any workouts at the combine because of a foot injury.

Analysis

Strengths

Well-built, muscular blocker. Good arm length and overall mass. Can get in the way as a blocker. Efficient cut blocker. Functional short-area receiver.

Weaknesses

Spends more time on the ground than he should by lunging and overextending. Does not play big and feet do not run on contact. Very undisciplined route runner. Marginal release -- easily pinballed and knocked off his path. Is not quick or urgent into his routes.

Draft Projection

Priority free agent

Bottom Line

Looks like Tarzan but plays like Jane, and must learn how to convert his natural strength to the field to earn his way in the NFL. Has raw moldable tools to be groomed as a developmental H-back or move tight end. Will require patience.
-Nolan Nawrocki